AAC lecture 4.20.26

Overview of the AAC Funding Packet:
  - Modified syllabus includes AAC funding packet information.
  - Utilized Boardmaker to create an AAC funding packet module.
  - Integrated funding portals for companies learned during the semester:
    - PRC (Prentke Romich Company)
    - Toby / Diamond Box
    - Smartbox
  - Plans to screen record and walkthrough funding applications for students.
Application Access:
- Opportunity for students to review application processes next week.

Previous Approach:
  - Past case studies involved teams assigned an individual with details such as:
    - Age
    - Diagnosis
    - Specific visual impairments
    - Background on sensory needs
  - Teams would assess suitable equipment/software.
New Format:
  - Introduced a 'Case Study Jeopardy' format for final class.
  - Teams will compete in a game format responding to questions on:
    - Recommended access methods
    - Recommended equipment
  - Aim for engagement through game-based learning.

Quizzes:
- Some quizzes have been reopened for students who requested it.
- Open to further reopening quizzes for anyone else who needs assistance.

Upcoming Graduation:
- Noted that students have three weeks until graduation.
- Congratulatory remarks on successful completion of comprehensive examinations (comps).

Game Structure:
  - Four teams of seven participants.
  - Roles within each team:
    - Spokesperson
    - Timekeeper
  - Teams answer questions in turn and have a set timeframe.
  - Opportunity for open questions if an answer is incorrect.
Final Jeopardy:
  - Structure includes a culminating round of questioning.
  - Jeopardy categories:
    - IV (Input/Output)
    - Switches
    - Cuts
    - Medical Equipment
    - Bilingual Support
    - Vendors
    - Implementation strategies.

Book Collection:
- Students are invited to list titles of books they bring in for sharing during the session.
Networking Opportunities:
- Mention of local practices and networking opportunities available in the Morganville, Monroe, and Princeton areas.

Speaker Background:
- Introduction of Sam from Smartbox, previously with TalkToMe Technologies.
- Overview of Smartbox and its array of AAC equipment and software.
Consultation Role:
- Sam currently serves as an AAC consultant covering New Jersey.
- Discussion of AAC solutions and options available through Smartbox.

Device Options:
  - Windows-based devices:
    - GridPad series (Go 10, GridPad 13, GridPad 16).
    - All devices include Grid 3 software.
    - Features:
      - Durable medical equipment casing
      - Built-in external speakers
      - Compatibility with various access methods:
        - Direct touch
        - Eye gaze
        - Switch scanning
        - Head tracking
  - iOS-based devices:
    - Talkpad models (V Go 8 and 10, Wego 5, and Wego 13).
    - Integration with third-party apps (Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, etc.).

Access Methods:
  - Various access methods supported across devices include:
    - Switch scanning
    - Eye gaze
    - Direct selection
  - Importance of positioning during assessments for optimal device usage.

SLP Loaners:
- New SLPs can request loaner devices for patient evaluation.
- Support for virtual training sessions available to build familiarity with Grid software.

Vocabulary Team:
- Smartbox offers personalized vocabulary setup for AAC devices based on patient profiles.
- Ongoing support provided to families ensuring device effectiveness post-discharge.
Training Specialists:
- Implementation support for families and school members.

Grid 3 Software Characteristics:
- Focus on core-based vocabulary sets to streamline communication processes.
- Dynamic vocabulary updates while building sentences to enhance speed and efficiency of communication.
Features in Grid:
- Includes specific modules tailored for various communication needs, including mental health awareness vocabularies.

Switch Access:
  - Switch characteristics:
    - Pressure sensitivity
    - Adaptations to ensure user-friendly experiences.
  - Bluetooth connectivity options discussed along with potential challenges such as connectivity reliability.

Eye Gaze Devices:
  - Overview of different eye gaze cameras:
    - Proprietary options (Evo, Vida) and their distinct applications.
  - Importance of patient positioning and eye gaze calibration for optimal device operation.

AI Tools in Grid Software:
- Introduction of AI-assisted tools for predictive text input and corrections.
- New language translation features to enhance user communication accessibility.

Monarch Reader:
- Extensive library of accessible books available through Smartbox devices, facilitating educational engagement.

Continuous Support:
- Emphasis on ongoing updates and support resources provided by Smartbox for clients and SLPs alike.
Networking and Contact Sharing:
- Distribution of contact cards and invitations for students to reach out for further assistance or networking opportunities.